In its third year, the Orange T-shirt campaign, supports greater awareness about truth and reconciliation.

On September 30th, we invite you to join us in wearing an orange shirt to honour the survivors of residential schools, their families, and the children who did not return home. Wearing orange is not only a symbol of acknowledgment for the trauma and suffering endured but also a testament to the strength and resilience of the Indigenous peoples. It is a gesture of recognizing the injustice and expressing our support and respect.

Once again we are thrilled to partner with the talented, local indigenous artist, Stephanie Gill from Burntstick Graphic Design, to create another remarkable artwork. This year’s design is dedicated to the Métis peoples.  

The bold infinity symbol on the blanket symbolizes immortality, resilience and the enduring identity of the Métis Nation as it does on the Métis flag, while the flower in the child’s hair represents delicate Métis beadwork. The traditional arrow pattern of the Métis sash is reflected in the headband, and nearly hidden on the frayed edge of the blanket you will see a lone wolf in the forest howling at the white moon that beautifully illustrates the Métis connection to the earth and to the creator.

The title for this year’s artwork is RESILIENCE, and the meaning is beautifully described in the poem created by Anne Gill (Stephanie’s mother) below. 

We are a strong resilient people
And will rise with the waking Sun
We will join hands as a proud people
For the long road home has begun.

Purchasing a locally produced orange t-shirt will showcase a talented local artist, and support a locally owned screen-printing business. Donations will also stay within the community to support our local Kootenay South Métis Society.
 
We look forward to seeing everyone come together in solidarity on September 30th, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.